HSG 374 : Aging in America: A Personal Challenge

This course, designed for students in human services fields who work with the aged, and students considering gerontology as a vocation, is an overview of the field. Topics include understanding the physiological, psychological and sociological aspects of aging, as well as myths about aging, health and social needs of the aging, and community resources and programs.

Will be familiar with adult development stages and theoretical frameworks of aging.

Will know and understand some of the basic issues affecting the lives of aging Americans (including economics, illness/wellness, employment/retirement, living environments, care giving, women and multicultural groups, death/dying/bereavement/widowhood, public policy).

Will know basic demographics of the older American population.

Will know some adaptive strategies utilized by older persons.

Will recognize ageism in the culture.

Will understand the functions of the federal, state, and local planning bodies on aging.